Honest, no-nonsense reviews of indie and self-published books.

because great writing doesn’t need a Big Five deal to be worth your attention.

Elegant Floating Books
Our latest reads

RECENT REVIEWS

Updated regularly throughout the year.

Sierra

ABOUT SIERRA

I’m Sierra — a voracious reader, an unapologetic note-scribbler, and the person behind Legit Lit Reviews. I read widely and I read critically. Whether it’s a literary novel, an investigative memoir, a history book that reads like a thriller, or an actual thriller — if it’s well written, I’m interested.

I created Legit Lit Reviews because I was tired of watching talented indie and self-published authors get overlooked by the mainstream review world. There is so much extraordinary work being independently published right now — across fiction, non-fiction, memoir, and everything in between — and most of it never gets the thoughtful criticism it deserves. I wanted to build a space where those books get a fair, honest hearing.

I review across genres and subjects with no real limits: literary fiction, genre fiction, memoir, biography, narrative history, science writing, cultural criticism, true crime, self-help, and anything that surprises me. I care about strong prose, solid research, and whether a book delivers on its own promise. I’m based in Chicago, Illinois, and I do all of this around a day job and a reading habit that my friends describe as ‘concerning.’

How it works

REVIEW POLICY

How we select and review books on Legit Lit Reviews.

01

WHO WE REVIEW

Legit Lit Reviews covers indie and self-published books across fiction and non-fiction. We review literary fiction, genre fiction (thriller, romance, mystery, fantasy, sci-fi, horror), memoir, narrative non-fiction, biography, history, science, cultural criticism, essay collections, true crime, self-help, and creative non-fiction. We are particularly interested in work from debut or emerging authors, though we welcome submissions at any career stage. We do not review academic dissertations, technical manuals, poetry collections, or children’s picture books.

02

HOW TO SUBMIT

Submit your book via the contact form on this page. Please include the title, genre or subject area, word count, publication date, and a brief description of your book. If applicable, mention any relevant background or credentials. Do not send unsolicited manuscripts or file attachments. For expedited or guaranteed review placement, please enquire about our editorial review service via the contact form.

03

TIMELINES

We aim to respond to all submissions within 3–5 business days. Accepted books are typically reviewed within 7–14 business days, depending on length and complexity. We will confirm a publication timeline with you once your book is accepted.

04

OUR STANDARDS

Reviews on Legit Lit Reviews are thorough, independent, and honest. We evaluate books on the quality of their writing, the strength of their structure, and whether they deliver on their own ambitions. We offer both complimentary and editorial review services. All reviews are honest and independent regardless of how the book was submitted. We do not guarantee favourable coverage. Published reviews represent our honest editorial opinion.

NOTE: We occasionally accept review copies from independent publishers and university presses. If you represent a press and would like to discuss a title, please use the contact form and select ‘Collaboration / Partnership’ from the subject dropdown.

GET IN TOUCH

If you’re an author with a book to submit, a reader with a recommendation, or a publisher interested in working together — I’d love to hear from you. I read every message, and I’ll do my best to respond within the timeframe listed below.

  • LOCATION: Chicago, Illinois, USA
  • EMAIL: hello@legitlitreviews.com
  • RESPONSE TIME: Typically 3–5 business days